A new law requiring landlords in three wards of the London borough of Brent to pay for a selective licence will come into force on August 1.

Landlords who rent out properties in Dollis Hill, Harlesden & Kensal Green and Willesden Green, will legally be required to have a licence from just over two weeks’ time.

A licence will cost £640 for up to five years. Although applications before August 1 will be able to purchase a licence at the ‘old’ rate of £540.

A statement from Brent council says the three locations were selected for licensing following a borough-wide consultation that began in autumn 2022. A report to the council claimed that a selective licensing scheme would “have a positive impact on poor property conditions and high levels of antisocial behaviour in the three areas.”

Councillor Promise Knight, Cabinet Member for Housing, Homelessness and Renters’ Security, says: “The landlords who work with us take pride in renting out properties that offer decent facilities and living conditions to tenants. The licensing scheme supports landlords in offering the best they can to tenants, ensuring that tenants’ safety and security are protected.

“We encourage landlords and agents with properties in Dollis Hill, Harlesden & Kensal Green and Willesden Green to apply for a licence as soon as possible.”